I first became aware of this video about two weeks ago after it showed up on the Jack and Jill Politics blog. I was instantly impressed with the political awareness and on-point answers that this young man, Derrick Ashong, presented as he talked about Barack Obama's health care plan.
Since seeing his interview on video, I began to realize how democratizing this year's Democratic presidential nomination race has become. Folks who had little to no interest in presidential politics are engaged in critical discussions, citing their candidate's plans as they make their political points. The old line, "Democrats fall in love, Republicans fall in line," needs to be revived to Democrats in democracy--falling for the intimate details of their candidate's political positions.
That many more Americans can engage in informed discussion about those who would like to become the next leader of the free world, instead of just talking about the latest gossip involving Britney and Brangelina's adventures, is good for the future of America.
Of course, Ashong does it better than most, which is why his interview has gone viral. Like Detrick DeBurr's email, I keep getting the video of Ashong's interview. I've become tired of informing the well-meaning senders that I've seen it already.
So, this is my personal affirmative action. From now on, anyone who sends the video to me will get a return email with my blog's url address.
Been there, seen that.
Stumble It!
